Pleasant enough coffee, but be warned of the parking restrictions associated with Ground Espresso bars located within shopping centres and retail parks; for example the one located within Clandeboye / Toscana Retail Park. Whilst it may at first look and seem like it's out on its own limb (in Clandeboye it's away from the shops, almost on the dual-carriageway) it's actually subject to the retail parks' parking time constraints - which is 2.5 hours. So if you're shopping and then decide to go for coffee (or vice-versa), then it's possible you'll fall foul of this. In the case of Clandeboye it's overseen by English company Smart Parking Ltd, who'll issue you with a £100 fine through the post. No first offence warning, and no notification on the day, just a fine through the post. Your car is photographed on first parking, and then again on exiting from the retail park. Not exactly apt for what should be a chilled environment like a coffee bar.
So if you do frequent these places and don't want to be punished for spending too much time spending your money, you'd be well advised to remove your car from the car park as quickly as possible after downing your coffee and eats, and go shopping somewhere else entirely (or vice versa). The appeal of having all-you-need under one roof / in one location, is somewhat lost then, as you'll need to be clock-watching or set an alarm if you have much to do. Shame really, both for the businesses trying to retain a customer base, and for...
Read moreI recently visited Ground Coffee Bangor and had a rather unpleasant encounter with one of the baristas. I ordered a double decaf espresso, which is my preferred choice due to personal reasons. However, to my surprise, the barista asked, "What is the point of ordering a double decaf espresso?"
As a customer, I believe it is essential for baristas to be respectful and accommodating to individual preferences, no matter how unusual they may seem. I felt uncomfortable and judged for my drink choice, which is not the kind of experience anyone wants when visiting a coffee shop.
While I understand that baristas may encounter various orders throughout their shifts, it is their responsibility to treat each customer with courtesy and professionalism. If they have concerns about a specific order, they should address them in a more polite and constructive manner.
Aside from the barista's attitude, the coffee itself was decent, but the overall experience was tainted by this encounter. It is crucial for Ground Coffee Bangor to emphasize customer service training for their staff to ensure all customers feel welcome and respected, regardless of their drink choices.
In conclusion, my visit to Ground Coffee Bangor was overshadowed by the inconsiderate attitude of one barista. I hope that the management takes this feedback seriously and works towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for...
Read moreWent in recently for a coffee and have to say it was one of the most uncomfortable experiences I have ever had. The minimalist decor, okay looks appealing but the acoustics are awful. Two out of three speakers I could see, were working, but were tilted down into the customer space. The music was being played obviously for the enjoyment of the staff working behind the counter, definitely not suitable background music, it was more suitable for a club or pub. Either play it loud or not at all, because as a result it was just an annoying noise. Adding to the already amplified racquet of coffee machines, chairs scraping across the floor was the clientele having to talk louder to be heard above it all. Then the staff member serving, their vocal ability put me in mind of Trainee Hooks in Police Academy, with the customer in front of us, my wife and the next lady all having to ask on at least 3 separate occasions for them to repeat their question. Having just been discharged from hospital two days previous for a Blood Pressure related illness I had to get up and leave as this place was far from relaxing. Sorry I will not be back, I will still use the Broomfields, Vic Square and Donegal Place locations...
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